Chief Test Pilot (GS-2181-15) - USAF Test Pilot School

The Air Force Test Center is seeking a highly qualified professional to serve as the Chief Test Pilot for the USAF Test Pilot School (USAF TPS) at Edwards Air Force Base, CA. This full-time leadership position offers an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of flight test and evaluation by mentoring a world-class team of instructors and guiding the next generation of test leaders. The incumbent will influence research direction, conduct experimental R&D test flights, and serve as a Safety Pilot for the X-62 VISTA experimental aircraft.

Position Details

Organization: USAF Test Pilot School (TPS)
Location: Edwards AFB, CA
Grade: GS-15
Salary: $197,200 (Special Salary Rate)
Incentives: Recruitment/relocation incentives may be available
Application Deadline: Resumes must be submitted no later than 27 April 2026

Role Overview

The Chief Test Pilot acts as the nationally and internationally recognized technical expert in airborne flight test and evaluation. As the senior instructor test pilot, the incumbent provides the technical expertise and corporate knowledge necessary for all flight test techniques and instructional methods utilized at the USAF TPS. Responsibilities include technical and safety oversight for all curriculum flight test training, providing ground and in-flight instruction to new personnel, and advising on student Test Management Projects and Staff Research Projects. The individual will represent the Air Force Test Center through active involvement in professional test organizations and enterprise-wide technical consulting.

Required Qualifications

U.S. Citizenship.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Graduate of a military Test Pilot School.
Minimum of 5 years of experience conducting military developmental or experimental flight testing of manned aerospace vehicles.
Must meet USAF Class II flying requirements, including physical standards for ejection seat aircraft, at the time of appointment.
Possession of a current Commercial Pilot Certificate or military equivalent, and an FAA Flight Instructor Certificate or military equivalent.
Must meet specialized OPM experience requirements for a GS-2181 Test Pilot Flight Instructor:
- 1,750 hours total flight time
- 1,300 hours Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
- 300 hours Instructor Pilot (IP) time
- 75 hours instrument time
- 100 hours flight time within the preceding 12 months

Desired Qualifications

Master’s degree in Engineering.
10+ years of experience in military flight test.
Prior teaching or instructional experience.
Active participation in professional flight test organizations such as SETP, SFTE, AIAA, or ITEA.

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit a resume for consideration. Please note that all federal resumes are strictly limited to a maximum of two pages.